zeit.de
Saxony-Anhalt Allotment Gardening: Fewer Plots, but Growing Diversity
Saxony-Anhalt's garden association reported nearly 80,000 members in February 2025, with a decreasing number of plots (97,100) compared to 2008 (123,000), but a growing interest from younger and foreign citizens, particularly from Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine, alongside social organizations.
- What is the current state of allotment gardening in Saxony-Anhalt, and what are the most significant demographic trends?
- In February 2025, nearly 80,000 people were members of the Saxony-Anhalt state association of garden friends, making it the second largest in Germany. The largest age group is 46-60 years old, followed closely by 26-45 year olds, showing a trend towards younger gardeners. Nearly 270 gardeners are over 90 years old.
- How does the number of foreign gardeners and social organizations involved in allotment gardening affect the overall picture?
- The Saxony-Anhalt garden association shows a decrease in total plots from over 123,000 in 2008 to approximately 97,100 in February 2025, with around 18 percent currently unused. However, the association president attributes this to demographic shifts and notes a growing interest from foreign citizens, with around 2,800 plots currently cultivated by people with foreign citizenship, mainly from Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine. Social organizations also operate 272 gardens.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the observed trends for the future of allotment gardening in Saxony-Anhalt and similar regions?
- The decreasing number of plots combined with the increase in younger and foreign gardeners suggests a potential shift in the demographic makeup of the Saxony-Anhalt gardening community. This could indicate a growing appeal of urban gardening among younger generations and immigrant communities, potentially offsetting the effects of an aging population. The relatively low cost of plots (100-200 euros annually, excluding utilities) may also contribute to its continued popularity.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline isn't provided, but the framing of the article is overwhelmingly positive towards allotment gardening. The focus on the increasing diversity of gardeners and the positive quotes from the association president contribute to a generally optimistic view, potentially downplaying any potential issues. The decrease in allotment numbers is presented as a minor issue easily explained away by demographics.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, but phrases like "active recreation – allotment gardens make you happy" are slightly subjective and promotional. The article uses positive terms to describe the situation, such as "good for development" and "no cause for concern." More neutral phrasing could improve objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the positive aspects of allotment gardening in Saxony-Anhalt, potentially omitting challenges faced by allotment gardeners, such as rising costs, bureaucratic hurdles, or conflicts between gardeners. There is no mention of any negative impacts of allotment gardening or any criticisms of the system. The decrease in the number of allotments is attributed solely to demographic shifts, without exploring other possible factors.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a rather rosy picture of allotment gardening, contrasting the positive aspects with a slightly concerning decrease in the number of allotments. It doesn't explore alternative forms of urban gardening or other ways people access green space or relaxation. The framing suggests that allotment gardening is the primary, if not only, solution for access to nature in urban areas.
Gender Bias
While the article mentions both men and women, there's no overt gender bias. The language used is neutral and doesn't stereotype either gender. However, a more in-depth analysis examining the representation of men and women in leadership roles within the gardening association would be needed to draw a more conclusive assessment.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the positive impact of gardening on mental and physical well-being, emphasizing that it provides "active recreation" and contributes to happiness. The participation of older adults (with almost 270 gardeners over 90 years old) further suggests its role in promoting healthy aging and social interaction.